Hanuman Jayanti 2026 date confirmed: Know correct day, puja muhurat and simple rituals at home

Hanuman Jayanti is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is known for his strength, devotion, and courage. The festival marks his birth and is observed with great faith and simplicity by millions of devotees across the country.

In 2026, there has been some confusion about the exact date of the festival, with many people wondering whether it falls on April 1 or April 2. According to the Hindu calendar, Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated on April 2, 2026. This date is based on the occurrence of Chaitra Purnima, which is considered the birth day of Lord Hanuman.

The festival is not just about rituals but also about devotion and discipline. People visit temples, chant prayers, and remember the teachings of Lord Hanuman, who symbolises loyalty and selfless service.

Date and puja timings

The timing of Hanuman Jayanti is decided according to the lunar calendar. In 2026, the Purnima tithi begins on April 1 at 7:06 AM and ends on April 2 at 7:41 AM. Since the Purnima is observed at sunrise on April 2, that day is considered the correct date for celebrating Hanuman Jayanti.

There are several auspicious time periods, known as muhurats, during which devotees can perform puja. These include:

• Brahma muhurat: 04:38 AM to 05:24 AM

• Pratah sandhya: 05:01 AM to 06:10 AM

• Abhijit muhurat: 12:00 PM to 12:50 PM

• Vijay muhurat: 02:30 PM to 03:20 PM

• Godhuli muhurat: 06:38 PM to 07:01 PM

• Sayahna sandhya: 06:39 PM to 07:48 PM

• Amrit kaal: 11:18 AM to 12:59 PM

Among these, early morning and midday are considered the most suitable times for worship. However, devotees can choose any muhurat that fits their daily routine.

The day is usually observed with fasting, temple visits, and recitation of sacred texts like the Hanuman Chalisa. Many people also participate in community prayers and special events organised at temples.

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Simple puja at home

Performing Hanuman puja at home is simple and does not require elaborate arrangements. The focus is more on devotion and sincerity rather than complexity.

Devotees usually start their day early by waking up before sunrise and completing their daily routine. Wearing clean clothes, especially in red or saffron colour, is considered auspicious.

A small puja space is then prepared. A wooden platform or clean surface is covered with a cloth, and an idol or picture of Lord Hanuman is placed on it. A diya (lamp) and incense sticks are lit to create a peaceful and sacred environment.

Offerings are an important part of the puja. Flowers, garlands, and prasad such as laddoos or panchamrit are offered to the deity. Applying sindoor (vermilion), chandan (sandalwood paste), and jasmine oil to the idol is also a common ritual, as these are believed to be प्रिय to Lord Hanuman.

After this, devotees chant prayers or recite the Hanuman Chalisa. The puja ends with an aarti, where devotees express gratitude and seek blessings.

The simplicity of these rituals is what makes the festival special. It does not require grand arrangements but encourages a deep personal connection with faith.

Across India, the way Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated may vary slightly. In northern states, it is usually observed on a single day with temple visits and fasting. In southern states like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the celebrations can continue for several days, sometimes even up to 41 days.

Despite these differences, the core idea remains the same — devotion to Lord Hanuman and following his values of strength, humility, and dedication.

In conclusion, Hanuman Jayanti 2026 will be celebrated on April 2, based on the Purnima tithi. With multiple puja muhurats available throughout the day, devotees can choose a suitable time for worship.

The festival reminds people of the importance of faith and discipline in daily life. Whether celebrated at a temple or at home, the essence of the day lies in simple and sincere devotion.

By following easy rituals and staying connected to the spiritual meaning of the festival, devotees can make the most of this auspicious occasion and seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman.